The U.S. draft urges the Council to endorse a comprehensive two-year framework aimed at stabilising Gaza, restoring governance, and addressing longstanding humanitarian and security concerns. The plan outlines the creation of a new governing body, the "Board of Peace," which would oversee the region's transition while operating under international oversight.
The U.S. draft calls for the establishment of a temporary International Stabilisation Force (ISF) to disarm non-state armed groups in Gaza, ensure the protection of civilians, secure humanitarian corridors, and assist in the demilitarisation of the area.
The force, which is expected to be around 20,000 strong, would not include U.S. troops but would be staffed by international personnel. The draft emphasises the necessity of peace efforts, stating, "Conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood" after necessary reforms by the Palestinian Authority (PA).
Despite broad support for the idea of creating a "Board of Peace," several member states raised concerns over the proposed framework. Issues include the lack of clarity regarding the PA's role in the future governance structure, limited oversight mechanisms, and the vague nature of the ISF's mandate.
"While the Board of Peace is a positive development, questions remain on how the PA will operate within this new structure," one UNSC member noted.
In response to the U.S. proposal, Russia, currently engaged in the war in Ukraine, presented a counter-resolution calling for a more balanced approach to achieving a sustainable cessation of hostilities. Russia's draft emphasises "a unified approach" to resolving the Gaza conflict, focusing on the immediate cessation of violence and the addressing of humanitarian concerns.
"The goal is to enable the Security Council to develop a balanced, acceptable, and unified approach toward achieving a sustainable cessation of hostilities," Russia's representative stated.
The context of these diplomatic efforts stems from the October 8, 2025, ceasefire agreement brokered by the U.S., which brought about the first phase of Trump's 20-point Gaza peace plan.
The ceasefire paused the violence that had claimed over 69,000 Palestinian lives over two years of fighting. While the ceasefire has largely held, Israel's repeated violations, through near-daily airstrikes and attacks, have exacerbated the fragile peace process, leading to further casualties.
The U.S. mission to the UN emphasised the critical need for adoption of the resolution, framing it as a historic opportunity to "pave a path toward enduring peace in the Middle East."
"This is a historic moment for the international community to act decisively in securing lasting peace and stability in Gaza and the broader region," said the U.S. Ambassador to the UN.
While the situation remains fluid and complex, the international community now faces a critical decision regarding its approach to the Gaza crisis. The Security Council's response to the U.S. draft and Russia's counterproposal will likely determine the trajectory of peace efforts in Gaza in the coming months.
Rania Umutoni
